Ajilore Rallies CHAN Eagles Ahead of Must-Win Nigeria vs Sudan Clash

By: Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Former Super Eagles midfielder and current Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA) board member, Femi Ajilore, has thrown his weight behind Nigeria’s home-based national team, urging them to approach their next African Nations Championship (CHAN) match against Sudan with maximum focus and determination.

The CHAN Eagles, who suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in their opening Group stage match, will face Sudan in what Ajilore describes as a “do-or-die” encounter. According to the 2008 Olympic silver medalist, anything short of victory will effectively end Nigeria’s campaign.

“It’s a must-win for them. If they don’t win, they’re coming back home,” Ajilore said. “They played well in the first game but made a blunder that cost them the match. In football, no matter how well you play, you must find a way to win.”

Ajilore, who represented Nigeria at both youth and senior levels, believes the squad possesses the talent to excel in the competition but insists that execution on the pitch — particularly in front of goal — will be the deciding factor.

“We have good players in every department, but football is not about what we say — it’s about what we do on the pitch. We’ve seen flashes of brilliance from some players, but our goal-scoring has not been good enough. If they can take their chances and make themselves proud, I believe they will go far,” he explained.

Reflecting on the narrow loss to Senegal, Ajilore highlighted the team’s defensive resilience against a highly rated opponent as a sign they can challenge for honours.

“They played against the reigning champions, and it was a very difficult game for the Senegalese. If not for that mistake, we could have earned at least a point. That shows they can compete with anyone in this tournament. If they maintain that defensive solidity and add goals, they can go all the way to the final.”

With Nigeria needing maximum points to stay in contention for a knockout berth, Ajilore’s message to the players was clear: approach the Sudan clash as though the title is at stake.

“This next game is like a final. They must give everything from start to finish,” he concluded.

The CHAN Eagles will take on Sudan in their second Group stage match, with kick-off scheduled for Tuesday 12th of August 2025 by 6pm, as they aim to reignite their quest for continental glory.